Paraspinal Muscle Activity Differences in Various Subtypes of Idiopathic Scoliosis

Abstract

Background: Scoliosis refers to deviation of spinal alignment in three dimensional planes. In response to functional demands Muscle fibers change in motor unit function. Knowledge of difference in muscle fiber activity in functional situations allows us to plan curve specific effective physical therapy. Methodology: All study subjects were categorised based on Rigo Classification and assessed for para spinal muscle activity by Surface Electro Myography at cervical, thoracic, lumbar, concave- convex sides of apex and lumbar /lumbo sacral regions of spine in general sequence and curve specific sequence. Results: Total number of subjects were 25 (16 female and 9 male). Age ranging from 12 to 39 years and Risser from 1-5. Overall maximum amplitudes recorded in antigravity positions. Amplitudes of as low as (M±σ = mean± standard deviation) M±σ: 0.92±0.79µv to M± σ: 1411.6±734.9µv were found. Conclusion: Differences in right and left paraspinal activity was observed in general and specific sequences, but this difference was not consistent in general and specific sequence surface electro myography. Maximum amplitudes found at lumbar and lumbo sacral regions on antigravity positions than other positions. Convex side has more activity than concave sides at apex regions. Differences were not similar in all positions, this difference in left and right side was varying with curve type and type of movement. Results of paraspinal activity may be used for planning of suitable exercises after achieving best possible correction in sagittal and frontal planes. Key words: Paraspinal muscle activity differences, idiopathic scoliosis, deviation of spinal alignment.